Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra promised a premium smartwatch experience, but many users feel it hasn’t quite lived up to that “Ultra” name. While the watch brings solid features to the table, there are several areas where Samsung can improve to make it truly stand out in the competitive smartwatch market. Here's a breakdown of what Samsung needs to focus on for the next iteration.
1. Reduce Size Without Compromising Durability
Samsung has been making strides in thinning their tablets and phones, so it’s reasonable to expect the Galaxy Watch Ultra to follow the same path. A slimmer design would make the watch more comfortable for everyday use while retaining its ruggedness and durability. Striking this balance will make it feel less bulky without sacrificing its structural strength.
2. Improve Heart Rate Accuracy Before Adding New Metrics
While adding new health metrics is exciting, Samsung needs to prioritize refining the accuracy of existing sensors, particularly the heart rate monitor. Reliable health tracking is foundational for smartwatches, and enhancing accuracy will build user trust before expanding measurement capabilities.
3. Reintroduce a Physical Navigation Control
One of the missed opportunities in the current Galaxy Watch Ultra is the absence of a tactile physical navigation element. Adding a dedicated physical control would improve usability, making menu navigation more intuitive, especially in active or outdoor scenarios where touchscreens may be less responsive.
4. Deliver Exceptional Battery Life
Battery longevity remains a critical factor for smartwatch users. Samsung needs to match or exceed competitors like the Huawei Watch Ultimate 2, which offers nearly three days of use, or the OnePlus Watch 3 that can go for around four days. Improved battery performance would make the Galaxy Watch Ultra more practical for everyday wear.
5. Establish a Unique and Confident Design Identity
The Galaxy Watch Ultra currently feels somewhat experimental, especially with its squircle design. Tightening the proportions and embracing a bolder, purposeful aesthetic will help establish its identity as a premium “Ultra” device. Samsung should aim for a look that conveys confidence and refinement to justify its higher price point.
A Strong Foundation to Build On
Despite its shortcomings, the Galaxy Watch Ultra has a solid base of features and build quality that Samsung can improve upon. By addressing these key areas, Samsung has the potential to create a smartwatch that truly deserves the “Ultra” label and stands out against rivals.
